Rowing town celebrated in Olympic exhibition

The Olympic legacy of a world-renowned rowing town is being celebrated in a new museum exhibition.

Henley-on-Thames in Oxfordshire is the only venue to host Olympic rowing twice.

The Games at Henley exhibition examines the role the town played at both the 1908 and 1948 Games, the people who made it possible and the impact it has had on modern Olympians and Paralympians.

The River and Rowing Museum will host the ticketed display until 15 September.

Stories from current and retired Team GB rowers, including Sir Steve Redgrave CBE, Naomi Riches MBE, Vicky Thornley, Alan Campbell and James Fox MBE, feature in the exhibition.

Interviews were conducted by young people from The Langley Academy Trust who spoke to the athletes about why Henley was so important to the sport and their lives.

Objects on display includes Sir Steve Redgrave’s historic five gold medals, souvenirs bought by spectators and a relay torch from the 1948 Games.

Steven O’Connor, director of the River and Rowing Museum, said: “Henley is rightly known as the rowing capital of the UK, with deep-rooted connections to the Games.

"As we look ahead to Paris 2024, this exhibition will bring stories and objects to life, celebrating our rich heritage and inspiring future generations.

"It's an opportunity to not only honour our past but also to ignite excitement for the future of rowing.”

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